Mom's 7 Minute Frosting

I am so glad to be back in my closet/office writing my thoughts and recipes down! I really enjoyed the holiday break, but there's something to be said for ordinary days, as well. I guess the everyday-workdays make us appreciate the glitz and whirl of the holidays. I have to say, though, that my very favorite parts of Dec./Jan. were having my family home and the simple traditions that we reenact every year: looking at the lights, listening to carols and decorating cookies together. I know that I appreciated the traditions even more this year because we had Blake home from Japan to enjoy them with us!

My holiday funfest ends every year with my birthday on January 4th. Even as a child, I considered my birthday the final touch on my favorite time of the year. My mom would make anything that I requested for my "birthday dinner" and then, cake with 7 Minute Icing and presents!

Having a January birthday as a kid was like a "safety net" for anything that Santa didn't remember, or you forgot to ask for! The biggest gift that I wished for every birthday was SNOW! Usually God granted the wish, and sometimes not. If we got enough snow, I didn't have to start back to school on my special day. It's funny, but now I'm "over 29" years old... and still wish for snow on my birthday!

Mom's 7 Minute Frosting

2 unbeaten egg whites
1 1/2 C granulated sugar
2 tsp light corn syrup
1/2 C cold water
Dash salt
1 tsp vanilla

Put all ingredients except vanilla in the top of a double broiler (not over heat); beat 1 min. with electric hand mixer. Place over (but not touching) boiling water and cook, beating constantly, until frosting forms stiff peaks, about 7 minutes (don't overcook).

Remove from boiling water. Pour into mixing bowl. Add vanilla and beat to spreading consistency, about 2 min. This amount frosts tops and sides of two 8 or 9" layers, top of 13x0" cake, or 2 dozen cupcakes (I had a birthday "tea party" one year!)

I will be at these swaps today:

BlessedwithGrace
BalancingBedlamandBeauty.com
Gypsy'sCorner